As we celebrate America’s 250th Birthday this year, you are cordially invited to join us as our Civics, Conversation & Coffee Series continues for an insightful hour of civic awareness and engagement in a non-partisan setting. This venue has its origins in our country’s founding, as colonists and early Americans met in a friendly environment, such as a tavern or village green, to discuss important issues of their day.
Our Civics, Conversation & Coffee Series is all of that – and more.
Like our forefathers, we provide a forum that brings neighbors together for civic awareness and engagement, except that we will be substituting a cup of coffee for a tankard of ale.
To keep the atmosphere casual, relaxed and engaging, coffee will be available when doors open, but you are welcome to bring your own favorite cup of coffee, tea or beverage to enjoy during the session.
Our speakers will share their expertise about important issues and what they mean for our community. Topics may include talks on local government, legislative updates, public policy, U.S. History and other interesting subjects that matter to you.
Presentations will be followed with a Q & A session where you will have the opportunity to have interactive discussions with our guest speakers and each other.
There will be a Meet & Greet after the event where you will have the opportunity for some one-on-one conversation with our guests.
This is a great opportunity to get informed on the issues shaping our world today while connecting with others over a morning brew.
This Month’s Guest Speaker:
Vanessa Oliver, State Representative – District 76
This Month’s Topics:
– Celebrating Constitution Week: The Three Miracles of the U.S. Constitution
– Update on the 2026 Florida Legislative Session and how it impacts us – Vanessa Oliver.
– 25th Anniversary of the 9-11 Attacks on America:
A Memorial Video “Let Us Never Forget”
About Our Speaker:
Vanessa Oliver is our State Representative from District 76, which incorporates all of Punta Gorda.
She was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2024 after being elected in 2020 as a Commissioner from our district to the Charlotte County Airport Authority where she served as Vice-Chair.
Vanessa graduated from the College of William & Mary in 2002 with a BA in Economics and a Government Minor, and the University of Florida Levin College of Law, JD in 2006.
She is a member of the Charlotte County Bar Association, is 2016 graduate of Leadership Charlotte, past-Chair of the Charlotte Harbor Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Committee, past-secretary of the Economic Development Partnership, and a former Board Member for Habitat for Humanity.
This event is open to the public and there is no fee to attend, but we do encourage you to register in advance as space is limited.
Attendees are welcome to BYOB and snacks.
Bring a friend or neighbor and show them what a great civic organization our Civic Association is.
We look forward to seeing you there with a coffee in hand!